The Police Federation of England and Wales is proud to announce PC Greg Blais of Hampshire and Isle Of Wight Police as the recipient of the Response Officer of the Year award, presented by ACC Matt Boyle at the PFEW Annual Conference.
PC Blais is recognised for an exceptional year of frontline policing marked by relentless proactivity, outstanding operational impact, and exemplary victim care. Described by his nominator as “the most proactive officer I have seen in 24 years of policing,” Greg combines tireless pursuit of offenders with strong leadership and a team‑first ethos forged during a background in national ice‑hockey. His presence on shift is widely regarded by colleagues as a guarantee of increased public safety and reduced opportunity for offending.
Over the past 12 months PC Blais has delivered remarkable results. He has arrested more than 300 individuals, attended 422 incidents and was first on scene to 333 of them. His search activity returns almost a 50% positive rate, and he has logged in excess of 100 intelligence submissions. These figures underline a sustained pattern of effective, intelligence‑led activity that has materially reduced harm across his area.
The nomination highlights multiple operational examples that demonstrate Greg’s initiative and tenacity. He tracked down and arrested a prolific offender responsible for an extended spree of burglaries, ram raids, pharmacy breaks and vehicle thefts after spotting suspicious behaviour on top of a passing double‑decker bus; the offender is now imprisoned and many victims have expressed their gratitude. In another proactive intervention Greg pursued and arrested a high‑risk individual on recall for domestic abuse offences after conducting foot patrols and using local intelligence to locate him, safeguarding vulnerable victims.
PC Blais’ work also reflects careful judgement and compassion in high‑risk safeguarding scenarios. He and a crew mate located a severely injured and suicidal 76‑year‑old on isolated rocks as tides turned; Greg coordinated the Coastguard and other emergency services and managed a volatile situation so that the casualty could be medically evacuated. His victim‑centred approach is further evidenced by a high‑risk domestic abuse case in which his engagement with a reluctant victim secured ongoing cooperation; the victim’s supporting agency now uses the case as a training example.
Greg is also credited with strong mentoring and leadership. He routinely brings new officers on proactive duties and models effective tactics and decision‑making. One such shift led to coordinated searches, multiple arrests and the seizure of cash, significant quantities of drugs and offensive weapons. His approach clearly combines tactical acumen with an emphasis on building sustainable investigative opportunities.
PC Blais’ nominators summarised his contribution: a passionate, hungry frontline officer who prioritises prevention, protects victims, and inspires colleagues to higher standards. His consistent delivery of high‑quality policing across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight has made a demonstrable difference to community safety.
Hailing from Canada, the former professional ice hockey player said: "This award is truly a career defining honour. Policing is all about turning up early, rain or shine, staying positive and keeping people safe. To be honest, I'm just speechless."
The PFEW congratulates PC Greg Blais on this well‑deserved recognition and thanks him for his outstanding service. The Response Officer of the Year award celebrates the vital impact of frontline officers who, through dedication and professionalism, keep communities safe every day.
